The Black Plague, which swept through Europe in the mid-14th century, had a dramatic impact on society. It is estimated that the plague killed 25-30 million people, roughly one-third of Europe’s population, leading to severe labor shortages. This drastic reduction in population resulted in economic upheaval, as surviving workers could demand higher wages and better working conditions. Furthermore, the plague challenged the authority of the Church and traditional social structures, as people questioned the role of faith in the face of such disaster. The societal changes contributed to the eventual rise of the Renaissance and the modern world.